O C T O B E R 2 0 2 4
A Message from the Chief
Dear American Canyon Community,
I am proud to announce some exciting events and updates from the American Canyon Fire Protection District this month. We recently held a badge pinning ceremony to celebrate the promotion of Captain Steele, a dedicated leader in our department. His hard work and commitment to serving our community make him an invaluable asset to our team.
In addition, our crews participated in joint water training at the city pool, utilizing our rescue boat. This collaborative effort ensures that we are well-prepared to handle water rescues effectively and efficiently.
October is National Fire Prevention Month, a perfect time to focus on fire safety and preparedness. We invite you to our annual Open House on Saturday, October 5th, where we have activities planned for the whole family. From 10–11 a.m., we will start with a special 'Quiet Hour' for our friends who are sensitive to light and sound. From 11 a.m.–1 p.m., you can enjoy a kids' obstacle course, learn hands-only CPR, watch a vehicle extrication demo, and see a police K-9 demonstration, among other fun and informative activities.
At our last board meeting, the Fire District Board of Directors presented a proclamation recognizing Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. This important recognition highlights the lifesaving benefits of knowing hands-only CPR—skills that every community member can learn to help save a life.
We also took time this past month to honor and remember all the lives lost on September 11th. The Fire District hosted a community event to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of the first responders and civilians who were taken from us on that tragic day. It was a solemn reminder of the importance of unity, resilience, and service to others.
Lastly, while the cooler months are ahead, wildfire remains a threat. I urge everyone to continue doing their part by keeping properties clear of dead grass and weeds, reducing the risk of fire in our community.
We look forward to seeing you at the Open House and working together to keep American Canyon safe and prepared.
Geoff Belyea
Fire Chief
American Canyon Fire Protection District
Operations Division
September Training
Monthly Training Hours 864
YTD Training Hours 14,636
Highlights
Module Testing
EMS Skills Update
USAR Drill -Water Rescue
Joint Training with Vallejo FD
Remembrance and Memorial Ceremony
On Wednesday, September 11th a Remembrance and Memorial Ceremony was held at the Public Safety facility to remember and honor those who lost their life that tragic day 23 years ago.
Leon Garcia, Chair of the Fire Protection District Board, Chief Greenberg of the American Canyon Police Department, and Chief Belyea of the American Canyon Fire Protection District gave speeches honoring those who passed, those who served, and our very own Captain Abalos who was aboard a KC-10 that fateful day and served refueling jets mid-air. The ceremony was well attended by the American Canyon community.
If you were not able to attend, there is a memorial that contains a steel piece from the twin towers in front of the Public Safety Building located at 911 Donaldson Way E for viewing.
EXPLORER EXPLORER CORNER CORNER
The American Canyon Fire District Welcomes Four New Explorers!
We are thrilled to announce the addition of four new Explorers to the American Canyon Fire District family. These dedicated individuals have joined our Explorers Program, where they will gain valuable skills and experience in fire service and emergency response.
In September, our Explorers have been busy refamiliarizing themselves with essential fire ground tools and learning new skills. Key training topics include the use of the **Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)**, a crucial tool that detects body heat and hot spots during search and rescue operations. The Explorers also received hands-on experience with **radio operations** and conducted **basic search and rescue exercises**, reinforcing their communication and teamwork skills in real-world scenarios.
The program’s goal is to provide our Explorers with the knowledge and practical experience needed to support their future careers in the fire service. We are excited to see their progress as they continue to develop these important life-saving skills.
Please join us in welcoming our new Explorers, and stay tuned for more updates on their journey!
Car Extrication Demo
Kid’s Obstacle Course
Hands Only CPR Training
Water Spraying Fire Extinguisher Trainer
10am-11am ‘Quiet Hour’ (For our friends with light & sound sensitivities)
11am-1pm Open to ALL
What is ACCERT?
ACCERT, American Canyon Community Response Team, is a program that educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may occur where they live.
ACCERT trains volunteers in basic disaster response skills such as: Fire Safety Light Search and Rescue Team Organization Communication
CERT teams exist to “fill the gaps” emergency services may have during a disaster response. We’re happy to be a resource, even when needs change.
If you are interested in seeing what ACCERT is all about, please contact info@americancanyoncert.org
Next General Membership Meeting
Monday, October 14th @ 7pm
225 James Rd, Station 211
To learn more about the 'Basic CERT Class' scan the QR Code
September Update
Sept 1st: 13 new graduates completed the CERT basic course at Napa Valley College.
Sept 2nd: Napa County CERT deployed a new volunteer management system for all county CERT teams (including ACCERT) to take advantage of. This allows us to keep track of training, events, schedules and contacts all from one place.
Sept 3rd: ACCERT held a ‘volunteer work day’ at Station 2. Several members volunteered their time to organize and install equipment for later use.
Sept 14th: ACCERT, with other Napa CERT teams, volunteered for the “2024 Napa Ride to Defeat ALS” bike event, providing Support and Gear to riders along the route. It was a solid skill building exercise for field work, crisis response, and radio use.
Sept 24th: ACFPD honored ACCERT at their district meeting with a proclamation declaring October as “National Community Emergency Response Team Month”
The next CERT Basic Training class will be held on Nov 2nd, 9th & 10th in Calistoga (English).
SUCCESS WITH SAFETY
Smoke Alarms; Make them work for you!
October marks ‘Nation Fire Prevention Month’. AmCanFire will hold our annual Open House on Saturday, October 5th from 10 am - 1 pm at Station 11, 911 Donaldson Way E, American Canyon.
Smoke alarms play a vital role in preventing loss of life in the event of a residential fire. Having a smoke alarm in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area, installed on each level of the home, and making sure the needs of all family members are met, including those with visual or hearing impairments.
Another important safety tip is having a family emergency exit plan and meeting place.
If you or someone you know needs assistance installing or replacing a smoke alarm or carbonmonixed monitor, and you reside within the American Canyon community, give us a call to schedule an appointment. 707-551-0650.
